Marvin Harrison Jr. on facing Colts: "It's going to be a special game for me."

Marvin Harrison Jr. is set to face the Indianapolis Colts, a moment steeped in family legacy as he goes up against his father’s former team.

Why it matters: This game represents a poignant intersection of past and present for both Harrison Jr. and the Colts, who are still basking in the legacy of Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison Sr.

• Harrison Sr., a Colts legend, played 13 seasons with the team and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016.
• For Harrison Jr., this contest serves as an opportunity to honor his father's legacy while carving out his own identity in the league.

What’s new: As the Arizona Cardinals prepare to take on the Colts, all eyes will be on Harrison Jr. as he steps onto the field in a unique familial matchup.

• The last time Harrison Sr. played for the Colts was in 2008, when his son was just six years old.
• Harrison Jr. reflects fondly on his father’s career, indicating that he carries those memories into this significant game.

By the numbers: Harrison Jr.'s early career statistics draw a fascinating parallel to his father's own rookie season.

• In his inaugural year, Harrison Jr. racked up 62 receptions for 885 yards and eight touchdowns, while his father had slightly better numbers with 64 catches for 836 yards and eight touchdowns in 1996.
• Over 22 games, Harrison Jr. has accumulated 82 receptions for 1,191 yards and 10 touchdowns, closely mirroring his father’s 90 receptions for 1,114 yards and 10 touchdowns at the same stage.

Our thought bubble: Harrison Jr.’s performance on the field will inevitably invite comparisons to his father, but he seems poised to embrace this narrative rather than shy away from it.

• “Not necessarily a good thing or a bad thing, honestly... Hopefully have the same career,” he stated when discussing the parallels in their stats.

Yes, but: Despite the family ties and shared success, the pressure to perform could weigh heavily on Harrison Jr. as he continues to navigate his burgeoning NFL career.

• While he has made a strong start, the expectations surrounding him due to his father’s legendary status may add layers of complexity to his development.

The bottom line: This matchup not only showcases Harrison Jr. as a rising star but also allows fans to celebrate the enduring legacy of Marvin Harrison Sr. within the Colts’ rich history.

• As the young receiver prepares for what he calls "a special game," it will be intriguing to see how he channels his family's legacy into performance on the field.